Spinner James Tredwell believes that every England player must show the same honesty as skipper Alastair Cook if they are to put a stop to their winless run against Australia.

England are a game away from equalling their worst-ever losing sequence against the Baggy Green after nine defeats in all formats dating back to last summer.

It is a record that, after conceding both the Ashes and one-day international series in quick time, has left Cook contemplating whether to stay on as captain.

Tredwell is certain the 29-year-old must remain, and believes the players can take a leaf out of his book when it comes to self analysis.

England have been outperformed in most categories this winter, which has forced them into admitting some brutal home truths.

"We're trying to be really honest with ourselves," Tredwell said.

"We understand that we've not been good enough on this tour.

"Our skills need to be better. We've not quite put them into practice over a period of time.

"We've spoken a lot about pushing back and giving Australia a bit of their medicine but that's not always easy when the skills aren't up to scratch.

"If we are really honest about it that's been the issue this winter."

England began Tuesday's training session, tucked away in the picturesque surrounds of the University of Western Australia, with a long team discussion before a four-hour session in 35 degree heat.

Cook and limited-overs coach Ashley Giles spoke at length with the players and, with three days to plot a way to end their tour duck before the fourth ODI at the WACA Ground, a strong workout followed.

"You get a few days like this when you get a chance to look at what's gone and where you want to go," Tredwell said.

"We've certainly done that this morning.

"That started today. We were all down after the last game there's no doubt about that.

"Alastair more than most. As captain you do tend to take a lot of that on yourself. He was down but we've had a really good chat today and he was at the forefront of that and we want him to take charge going forward."

Australia are set to rest four of their key players for Friday's match, including skipper Michael Clarke.

David Warner, Brad Haddin and Shane Watson have also not made the trip west, although Tredwell is not about to start under-estimating the home side.

In their places Australia have recalled Ashes winner Steve Smith, while Mitchell Johnson - crowned Australia's player of the year on Monday night - is ready to come back after being rested in Sunday's seven-wicket defeat in Sydney.

"Maybe (this is good chance to win), but we know how many good players there are in Australia as well," Tredwell said.

"The guys that are coming in for the guys that have been rested are no mugs.

"We know it is going to be a tough game. We'd like this to be the game that it does change.

"We were close at the Gabba - we got a score on the board - but we just couldn't get over the line. We need to bring all the skills together in one full package."